Kevin Durant, LeBron James Lead USA to Dominant Win Over Serbia in Group Opener
LILLE, France — The stage was set for a thrilling Olympic opener as Team USA faced off against Serbia, and the spotlight shone brightly on two of basketball's biggest stars: Kevin Durant and LeBron James. With a commanding performance, the United States triumphed 110-84, showcasing their prowess on the international stage.
A Stellar Return for Durant
Kevin Durant, the United States’ all-time Olympic scoring leader, made a spectacular return to the court after a calf injury sidelined him during the exhibition games. His presence was felt immediately, as he scored 21 points in the first half alone, helping to quell a spirited Serbian offense led by the formidable Nikola Jokić. Team USA head coach Steve Kerr praised Durant's seamless transition back into competitive play, noting, “He just looked like he was in mid-season form after not playing in a real basketball game for a couple of months.”
Durant's impact was crucial, especially as the U.S. struggled early on. His entry into the game provided the stability needed to counter Serbia's fast-paced attack, which initially caught the Americans off guard.
Early Struggles and Team Dynamics
Despite the star-studded lineup featuring LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Joel Embiid, the U.S. faced challenges right from the tip-off. Curry, making his Olympic debut, inadvertently set the tone for the game with a turnover that led to Serbia's first points. “We're still trying to build our identity around who we are with this 12-man group,” Curry reflected post-game.
Embiid, in particular, faced a tough crowd, struggling with free throws and fouls, perhaps feeling the weight of expectations as he represented the U.S. instead of his native France. The early moments were marked by confusion and turnovers, as Serbia's relentless pace put the Americans on the back foot.
Durant and James: The Dynamic Duo
LeBron James, fresh from leading the U.S. during the Opening Ceremony, ignited the scoring with a breakaway dunk. However, it was Durant who stole the show in the first half, scoring 14 points in a short span and ending the half with a fadeaway jumper that left the crowd in awe. “It’s great to have him on your side,” James remarked, highlighting Durant's ability to perform under pressure.
As the game progressed, the U.S. began to find its rhythm, with Durant and James leading the charge. The duo combined for 44 points, demonstrating their experience and skill in high-stakes situations.
A Commanding Second Half
The second half saw the United States extend their lead, with James muscling in a layup that showcased his strength and determination. The decisive moment came when he flexed in front of the Serbian bench, a clear statement of dominance. Durant finished the game with 23 points, while James contributed 21 points, 9 assists, and 8 rebounds, solidifying their roles as leaders on the court.
The game concluded with every American player, except for Tyrese Haliburton and Jayson Tatum, contributing to the scoreline, a testament to the depth of the roster. Kerr emphasized the importance of focusing on winning rather than individual accolades, stating, “The key to this whole thing is to put all the NBA stuff in the rearview mirror and just win six games.”
Looking Ahead
With this impressive victory, Team USA now turns its attention to their next challenge against South Sudan. The Americans will be eager to build on their momentum, especially with Durant back in the lineup. As Durant himself noted, “I feel like I'm testing it again, but it felt good to make some shots.”
As the Olympic journey continues, fans can expect more thrilling performances from this talented squad, led by the likes of Durant and James, as they aim for gold in Paris.